2017-2018 Schools Open House Guide
Feeling a little anxious about making one of the most important decisions in your kiddo’s life? We feel you. To help you out, we’ve compiled a calendar of Schools Open House dates, updated on the regs during Open House Season!
Before you dive in, check out some expert tips gathered by contributor Afton Nelson.
Wondering which school is right for your child? Searching the internet and talking to your friends will only get you so far. If you really want to know what a school is like, you need to go on a tour or attend an open house.
Sonya Rheingold from ChildRoots and Inge Hoogerhuis with Portland Jewish Academy shared their tips for how to get the most out of school open houses.
Overall, pay attention to how the school feels to you. Do the teachers and students look engaged and happy, and are they open to greeting and meeting guests? Trust your intuition. If the school doesn’t feel warm, inviting and enticing to you, it probably won’t be a good fit for your family.
Preschool Questions
- What’s the class size and the staff to child ratio?
- Are meals, snacks and diapers provided?
- What does child selection process look like?
- What is the educational philosophy?
- What would a typical day look like?
- How do you handle conflict?
- Do children play outside daily?
- How are naps handled?
- How are diaper changes and toilet training handled?
- How do you ensure my child will be ready for kindergarten?
- How does the school nurture a greater sense of community?
- How does the school communicate with families?
- What is the educational background and experience of the teachers and staff?
- Will the school provide references?
Grade School Questions
- What is the school’s disciplinary policy?
- How are report cards handled?
- Are independent or private school accredited by independent and reputable accrediting organizations, such as NWAIS or NAIS?
- How long has the school been in existence?
- Is the school’s financial picture solid?
- Are the teachers certified?
- Are there instructional aides?
- How long has the average teacher been at the school? What is the turnover?
- How do families communicate with the school?
- What resources do you have for kids with learning challenges?
- What is your homework policy?
- How are STEAM subjects integrated into the classroom?
Check out the Open House Guide here.